Wood Floor Moisture Barrier

Okay, we get a lot of do-it-yourselfers calling and emailing us, to ask what kind of paper needs to be laid under wood floor installs. A lot of names are out there, but the three you’ll hear the most are kraft, felt, and rosin paper. Just so you know, they’re all the same thing.

What is felt paper for?

Felt paper does a couple of things. First and foremost, it’s a moisture barrier. There is no actual felt in felt paper. It’s a layer of asphalt surrounded by two layers of normal brown craft paper. It’s the asphalt that provides the moisture barrier, thus, keeping your wood floors nice and dry. Second, the paper helps with noise. **Fact** wood changes with climate – temperature and moisture will make your wood swell and shrink. This causes a lot of noise. Ever wonder why when you’re laying in bed at night you can hear your home? That’s your framing, floors, and sub-floors moving together to accommodate the climate. The felt paper will help a little with this.

When should I use felt paper?

Well, first of all some wood floors come with a foam backing – most don’t. When you have this foam, you don’t need felt paper as a moisture barrier. But, to help with noise? Yes. As extra protection? Yes. Though, it’s up to you.

How do I use it?

Very simple, if the sub-floor is wood – you can just staple it down. If the sub-floor is concrete – use construction adhesive. Use a knife to cut the edges, then vacuum the whole area.

That’s pretty much it. If you have any more questions, just ask. Good luck guys